How we rate
Every number on this site traces to a spec database and documented weights. This page is the documentation.
The DinkScore
DinkScore is a 0–100 editorial score across six weighted axes, applied identically to all 16 paddles in the database:
- Spin class20%
- Face material and surface texture class. Raw carbon and kevlar faces grip longest; fiberglass and smooth graphite cap out lower.
- Power class20%
- Core thickness, core type, and swing-weight class. Thin cores, solid spans, and foam cores return more energy.
- Control class20%
- Pace absorption and dwell — thick cores and softer layups rate higher.
- Forgiveness15%
- Sweet-spot size class from shape and construction. Widebodies and thick standard shapes rate higher than narrow elongated builds.
- Build & longevity15%
- Construction approach, durability reputation of the build type (thermoformed edges, foam cores, solid spans), and warranty norms.
- Value10%
- Spec-per-dollar inside its price band — a $90 paddle competes against $90 paddles.
Where the specs come from
Manufacturer published data: face material, core type and thickness, shape, and listed weight. Swing weights are approximate class figures — manufacturers rarely publish them, so we use published class data and flag every value with the ≈ symbol. Spec-class ratings (1–5) are derived from those materials and dimensions, not from lab measurement.
Use-case lists and the finder
The best-for lists and the Paddle Finder re-weight the same six axes for a specific need — control games weight control and forgiveness, the tennis-elbow list hard-filters to vibration-managed builds. Nothing enters a list that isn't in the database.
Commissions and the firewall
DinkSpec earns affiliate commissions — including from Amazon — when you buy through our links. Scores are computed from the spec database before any link is attached; no brand sees, sponsors, or edits a rating. A paddle that scores poorly keeps its score.
Corrections
Spot a spec we got wrong? Tell us — database corrections recompute every ranking automatically.